9/01/2017

Pope Francis says “I will support Buhari government”

The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Embassy of Holy See Vatican, Archbishop Antonio Fillpazzi, has pledged Vatican’s support for the anti-corruption crusade and development of education sector in Nigeria.

‘Apostolic Nuncio’ is the term used for the Pope’s direct representatives to countries.

Fillpazzi made this remark on Thursday in Abuja when he paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama.

According to him, Pope Francis was interested in assisting the country to address its social economic problem and the challenge of irregular migrants to Europe.

Hs words, “In the past and in the present, the Catholic has been part of development in education and social economic development and we wish to continue.

“There is no intention to withdraw in this commitment because it is part of our faith and our religion.

“As it is indicated by the president and the diplomatic community, I think that the Catholic Church can do a lot, especially in addressing the problem which sometimes comes from lack of education and information.

“The church will be preaching the gospel and also do orientation to the society, to be an example and solution to the problem of corruption.

“Pope Francis is interested in what corruption is and how to address the challenge,” he said.

He pledged to contribute to the development and enhance the progress of Nigeria as well as making meaningful impact in the lives of Nigerians before the end of his official assignment.

Speaking earlier, Onyeama commended and solicited for the continued support of the Vatican for Nigeria.

“We appreciate the good work that the Vatican is carrying out in various fields in Nigeria, especially in education and social economic and religious, so we look very much forward for you to continue.

“Though, we should not rely on Vatican to solve our challenge but we certainly look forward to increasing cooperation from the Vatican,” he said.